FEATURE: London Kabuki shows readied with dazzling costumes, stage effects

TOKYO - Audiences watching acclaimed young Kabuki actors Ichikawa Somegoro VIII and Onoe Tatsunosuke III perform on their first international tour in London next year will be treated to a visual spectacle of elaborate wigs and intricately embroidered costumes.

The three Kabuki plays the actors will present at the prestigious Sadler's Wells Theatre in January will feature a variety of wigs, including a long, fiery red one that embodies a lion spirit, as well as special stage effects such as instantaneous costume changes performed in full view of the audience.